Gay Marriage Gains Ground Among Insiders

By James A. Barnes and Peter Bell

Many Democrats believe that gay marriage is not only "the right thing to do," but that it is also no longer a wedge issue that cripples the party. "The country is moving quickly toward acceptance of gay marriage," observed one Democratic Insider. "There is no need to hang back and expect civil unions to provide cover."

Democrats also felt that support for gay marriage would solidify the party's grip on younger voters. "It's this generation's civil rights movement," exclaimed one Democratic Insider. "It's a huge demographic opportunity for Democrats because almost every voter under 30 supports it," said another."

Still, a handful of Democrats were more cautious. "Let's not push the envelope," said one Democratic Insider. "We need to focus on swing voters in swing states."

Some of the same arguments that prompt Democratic support also had an impact among Republican Insiders. "Huge issue with young voters we need," asserted one GOP Insider who said the party should support gay marriage. "Only idiots fight demography."

Another GOP insider who said the party should avoid the issue explained, "We haven't come to a consensus on this issue but the country is changing so rapidly that it will a non issue in a few years. A confrontation now would just delay the inevitable."
But some of the old arguments still hold sway among Republicans. "As it has been defined for thousands of years, marriage is between a man and a woman," declared one GOP Insider. "End of story."

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But another Republican who said the GOP should oppose the issue added, "State the position and move on. Do not make it the focal point."

The National Journal Political Insiders Poll is a regular survey of political operatives, strategists, campaign consultants and lobbyists in both parties. Below are the names of the Republican and Democratic Insiders who were surveyed: